Be a Hero Magazine #16

Page 1


INSIDE BE A

HERO

WE’RE IN CYNK WITH SOUTH AFRICA

NET NINE NINE REGIONS UNITE TO HONOUR MADIBA!

MOYA FM’S PIONEERING DIGITAL COMPANIES BROADCASTING USING NET99 INTERNET!

IT’S NET99 OR NOTHING IN BOITEKONG!

SATISFIED CLIENTS: YOU SPEAK

OOSTHUYSEN LAUNCHES

G20 SUMMIT WILL PUT SOUTH AFRICA’S CONNECTIVITY UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

NET99 HITS 100-SCHOOL MILESTONE IN TRANSFORMING EDUCATION!

EMPOWERING YOUTH ON MANDELA DAY!

OUR GO TO MEN ON THE GROUND

WE’RE IN CYNK WITH SOUTH AFRICA NOW FOR SADC!

Like I’ve said before on this platform – this is a BIG institution.

And for the record, we are fulfilling the purpose of the vision.

Our Group CEO, Albert Oosthuysen, presented a vision in 2015. In between, there was a mission to the journey.

The ultimate goal was to reach the ceiling of this telecommunications space.

We are gradually getting there – slowly but surely! On 11 July 2025, Evotel celebrated 10 years, while Net Nine Nine marked five years of existence – a huge milestone.

On the same day, our Group CEO made a groundbreaking announcement about the launch of CYNK – a parent company that will oversee the two brands, including Magnolia Tree Fibre, LinkLayer, and Internet for Education.

With all the achievements, I don’t think I would be wrong in suggesting that our next destination should be the SADC region.

Much as there is still the Western Cape to connect, we have footprint across the country – and our mission is to connect each and every household in the eight provinces. It’s achievable.

The growth shows that this institution has ballooned into a giant.

As we celebrate these achievements, it is important to reflect and count our accomplishments.

Against all odds, we’ve made it this far.

This is vindicated by gigantic companies buying into our vision – which is amazing.

I repeat: we don’t follow the man, but the vision. A man can die tomorrow – but the vision will stay forever.

What heals my heart is that when this brand started years back, we had contractors who were subcontractors somewhere across the country – and today, they happen to be principal contractors in this journey of 10 years.

Now, to the current crop of contractors – the question is: Where do you fit in?

The challenge of growth is that there are those who will be part of the vision and mission, and those who won’t.

For me, as an individual reflecting back and seeing this historical thing, it says to me that we have a responsibility to connect the people.

I urge my colleagues to consider this when waking up in the morning: “Am I part of this purpose?” To make sure we fulfil what was started a decade ago.

Some came from different backgrounds when they joined telecoms, and didn’t understand this connectivity thing.

But we are all here now.

With the support of all shareholders, partners, contractors, and suppliers – we are moving the world. We are cruising nicely.

I’m sending a signal to our investors: open the cheque books, because Africa is our next destination.

Once we are done with the Western Cape, the cheque books must be signed – Africa is calling.

Fifteen years from now, I want to see many of you on another level of life.

Halala!

Dr Nicholas Thipe

Dr Nicholas Thipe

OOSTHUYSEN LAUNCHES ‘CYNK’!

A STRATEGIC HOLDING COMPANY FOR LEADING COMPANIES

In a move set to redefine the future of integrated business solutions in Africa, Albert Oosthuysen, Group CEO of Evotel and Net Nine Nine, has officially launched CYNK — a new company formed through the strategic merger of five high-impact enterprises across the technology and investment sectors.

CYNK, officially launched on Friday, 11 July 2025, in Sandton, Johannesburg, represents a bold new vision for business collaboration. It brings together five distinct companies under one powerful brand, delivering unified solutions for a fast-changing world.

The launch was strategically timed to coincide with the celebration of leading fibre network operator (FNO) Evotel’s 10-year anniversary, and fast-growing internet service provider (ISP) Net Nine Nine’s 5-year milestone. Together, the two companies have a strong presence in eight provinces across South Africa.

Designed to break down silos and foster innovation and collaboration, CYNK, which quite literally syncs all companies into one cohesive body, positions itself as a multi-disciplinary powerhouse ready to serve both corporate and government sectors. Most importantly, it aims to bring services to underserved communities across the country.

Upon announcing the news in front of shareholders, board members, and staff, Oosthuysen reflected on the achievements of both Net Nine Nine and Evotel — then dramatically set aside his prepared speech to deliver a heartfelt thank you to all the staff who have worked tirelessly to ensure the companies’ success.

He emphasised that CYNK is more than a company — it’s a shared vision, combining strengths from across all their companies into one agile, scalable platform, deeply rooted in African innovation.

The Group CEO summed it up simply:

“It takes a village to raise a child — well, this child took many villages to come together to rise.”

“So today, I’d like to officially launch our holding company — CYNK,” he announced, to loud cheers from the room.

He continued:

“We now have a combined 400 000+ homes passed, over 180 000 live customers, employing over 600 local people, 200+ connected schools, and many CSI projects under our belt.

“We’ve pushed hard in one direction, then something better would land on our lap — which aligned even more closely with our golden thread of care, love, and passion. And with that, I realised we were all in CYNK. So, when

A STRATEGIC HOLDING COMPANY COMPRISED OF LEADING COMPANIES

pushed to come up with a name, one landed naturally — CYNK.”

Oosthuysen also stated:

“We look forward to reaching over two million combined homes and over one million connected customers in the next three years.”

He gave credit to the partnering contractors who played a pivotal role in advancing CYNK’s success and laying the groundwork for even greater endeavours.

“Everyone here shares a common thread of wanting to make a difference. I’m grateful for all the guidance we’ve received, and I’m grateful for the common purpose of everyone who works here. With the groundwork we’ve laid — there are greater things to come.”

Looking ahead, CYNK plans to create more job opportunities, with a strong focus on empowering young professionals, women, and previously disadvantaged communities.

Nicholas Thipe, the company’s Chief of Staff, confirmed that the group’s next focus will include pan-African expansion.

ABOUT CYNK:

We invest in purpose-driven businesses that make a lasting impact and add value to the customer.

We believe the world can be improved through small, meaningful actions.

We aim to do this by nurturing potential, passion, and talent to uplift the greater collective — helping to raise the tide for all.

NET

NINE NINE

REGIONS UNITE TO

HONOUR MADIBA! A DEMONSTRATION OF COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

In a remarkable display of community spirit and social responsibility, all Net Nine Nine regions across South Africa came together to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s birthday by hosting various charitable events nationwide.

The annual initiative, which takes place on 18 July, saw employees and volunteers dedicating their time to serving soup, donating blankets, and conducting Microsoft educational drives in underserved communities.

This initiative, pioneered by Nelson Mandela before his passing in 2013, encourages people to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to doing good for others — symbolising the 67 years Madiba spent fighting for social justice.

Net Nine Nine embraced this call to action wholeheartedly, with each regional office organising impactful community service activities.

“We wanted to encourage the community — to just show them that we are part of them and we care about them,” explained Ronny Mofokeng, Net Nine Nine’s Ga-Rankuwa and Hammanskraal Regional Manager, who braved the morning chill at a taxi rank to serve the people.

The Microsoft educational drive was a standout feature of Net Nine Nine’s Mandela Day activities — an initiative led by the Marketing department under Richard Genlloud.

Recognising the digital divide in many communities, the company organised computer training sessions focused on essential Microsoft skills in William Ratladi’s Kwa Guqa region, pioneered by Tsholofelo Mmako, Brand Manager.

“We realised that a lot of people are struggling to even build their CVs. To build your CV, you probably even need to have a basic understanding of how to use Microsoft,” Genlloud shared with attendees.

The training covered Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint basics, equipping participants with valuable workplace skills.

As winter temperatures dipped across South Africa, Net Nine Nine’s blanket donation drive provided much-needed warmth to vulnerable community members. In Hendrina, under Pastor T, and in Rustenburg, Portia Mbhiza shared the love at the Ikageng Disability Centre in Boitekong and the Daniel Yandi Children’s Centre with Special Needs.

Teams across all regions collected and distributed blankets to the elderly, children, and homeless individuals.

Complementing this effort, soup kitchens were set up in various locations, offering nutritious meals to

those in need.

Employees volunteered their time to prepare, serve, and distribute the soup — creating moments of connection and care with community members.

Net Nine Nine’s Mandela Day activities build upon the company’s established history of community engagement. The company has previously demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility through initiatives like connecting schools to enable better education.

The success of this year’s Mandela Day activities has inspired Net Nine Nine to consider expanding its community initiatives — fostering ongoing relationships with the communities it serves, and recognising that sustainable impact requires consistent engagement.

Through these collective efforts across all regions, Net Nine Nine has demonstrated that corporate social responsibility can be both meaningful and impactful when aligned with Mandela’s vision of service to others.

As the company continues to grow its presence across South Africa, its commitment to uplifting communities remains steadfast — a fitting tribute

IT’S NET99 OR NOTHING IN BOITEKONG!

Boitekong is not just a township mainly dominated by miners — the vibrant Rustenburg area is a hub for hustlers, especially youth seeking job opportunities in bigger cities, or attending North-West University as part-time learners.

Many are armed with qualifications and talent, yet internet connectivity has long been a stumbling block — partly due to the toxic effects of mining emissions, which disrupt wireless network signals and hamper any chance of being reliably online.

The only real solution for Boitekong, located about 8 km north of Rustenburg, was fibre internet — a broadband technology that uses thin strands of glass to transmit data as light signals, offering significantly faster speeds and greater reliability than traditional wireless methods.

When Net Nine Nine extended its fibre network to multiple sections of Boitekong, the first to respond were the youth, who knew their dreams had a chance of becoming reality.

Community councillors gave Net Nine Nine the thumbs-up the moment all municipal documentation was completed — and from that point, it was all systems go to connect homes with high-speed fibre.

Life in Boitekong has long been tough, with many youth relying on platinum mines for employment, or seeking jobs in far-off urban centres, which brings frustration and discouragement.

The area is home to a diverse population — with many residents descending from neighbouring countries, alongside locals from Phokeng and Moruleng — bringing with them a rich tapestry of languages and cultures.

It must be noted that unemployment and poverty levels are high, and Net Nine Nine has helped ease the burden by employing a significant number of youth and local SMMEs, many of whom now serve as fibre contractors for the ISP.

Holding down the fort at the Net Nine Nine store on Tlou Street are local coordinators — Lerato Ngake, Johanna Tshidi, and Maletsatsi Tshabangu — who run operations in the absence of Regional Manager, Portia Nkateko Mbhiza.

Here’s what they had to say about how Net Nine Nine has changed Boitekong:

Johanna Tshidi – Extension 4 (Joined July 2024) “The experience has been amazing. I’ve been exposed to people from all walks of life with different needs. One thing is guaranteed — our clients are extremely happy. Many were unhappy with ADSL, and when they saw fibre trenches across pavements and driveways, they knew something big was coming.

From the get-go, many committed to future payments — a sign of trust and confidence.

People of Boitekong use a lot of data to look for opportunities and connect with the world. Data is expensive in South Africa — but we’re offering affordable, unlimited access, which has truly changed their lives.”

Lerato Ngake – Noord, (Joined November 2024) “Net Nine Nine took me out of my comfort zone. I never saw myself working in sales, but here I am — and I’m loving it!

I’m a third-year law student, but I’ve taken a break before completing my LLB degree. This opportunity came at the perfect time.”

Maletsatsi Tshabangu – Extension 8 (Joined October

2024)

“People are loving this brand — that’s just a fact. I’ve seen more happy clients than I can count. Net Nine Nine is now part of the community — they’d be upset if it disappeared.

I initially thought people didn’t know much about fibre, but they’ve been receptive and engaged. We’re signing an average of 17 clients per day!”

Regional Manager Portia Nkateko Mbhiza Mbhiza believes the store is in good hands with the coordinators at Tlou Street, and notes:

“In big cities, we often take fibre for granted, thinking it’s normal. But in places like Boitekong, it’s transformational.”

Her strong ties with local community leaders and organisations have helped foster a deep relationship between Net Nine Nine and Boitekong residents.

Mbhiza runs monthly CSI projects, sponsors local sports events, and maintains visibility in the community — efforts she believes bring Net Nine Nine closer to its clients.

“It’s important to note that fibre doesn’t use a SIM

card like Wi-Fi, which transmits via 3G, 4G or 5G,” she explained.

“Fibre is dedicated to the specific household and not shared. I’ve been in the fibre industry for over 14 years, and I bring that experience into every conversation.”

Among Net Nine Nine’s happiest Boitekong clients are residents of Pardekraal, Extension 23, Million Dollar, Abhudabi, Portion 50, Plot 14, and Extensions 8 and 2. Boitekong may have once been offline and overlooked, but today, it’s clear:

It’s Net Nine Nine — or nothing.

EMPOWERING YOUTH ON MANDELA DAY!

On Mandela Day, 18 July 2025, while South Africans served their 67 minutes by cleaning libraries, visiting old age homes, or serving food to the needy — as requested by the former statesman before his passing in 2013 — in the heart of Kwa Guqa, Witbank, locals between the ages of 18 and 30 sat in class, learning Microsoft skills.

All this is thanks to Net Nine Nine’s Marketing team, in their quest to plough back into the community — a unique concept aimed at making a positive impact on the people they serve and addressing pressing social issues.

What began as a simple idea to honour Mandela Day has blossomed into a powerful three-month initiative to change lives through digital literacy. Indications are that many participants will leave the hall with their heads held high, armed with accredited certificates — official credentials that validate their new skills to potential employers.

At 10am on 18 July 2025, the youth had already converged at a local community computer centre to kickstart their three-month journey. Head of Marketing Richard Genlloud welcomed them, guiding them through the first day’s activities and explaining the purpose of the initiative — introducing them to Sphamandla Mkhonza, the local computer genius and course facilitator.

At the end of it all, a certificate awarding ceremony will cap off the experience — a symbolic and practical reward in this community transformation exercise. One participant confessed to not even having an email address, while others admitted they didn’t know how to construct a CV.

Tsholofelo Mmako, the visionary behind the programme, identified a troubling pattern in many communities — one worsened by the unemployment crisis.

“We saw talented people between 18 and 30 who couldn’t access opportunities simply because they lacked basic computer skills,” explained the Brand Manager, her eyes reflecting both concern and determination.

“Something as fundamental as creating a CV was an insurmountable barrier for many. We initially thought of a short course. But after careful consideration, we realised they really wanted to learn — and we didn’t want to limit them to one day. There’s a three-month programme, designed by the facilitator, that will leave learners armed with knowledge.”

The Microsoft training programme launched on a sunny morning with 10 nervous participants filing into a room filled with computers — some touching a keyboard with extreme care. Mmako expected some hesitation at first.

“I’ve applied for jobs for three years with no response,” confided one participant.

“I’ve been writing my CV by hand and asking internet cafés to type it. You wouldn’t believe what it looks like when potential employers receive it. Smartphones can help, but they need to have Microsoft programmes installed.”

The programme’s comprehensive approach addresses exactly these challenges.

Participants learn Microsoft Word for CV creation, Excel for basic data management, and PowerPoint for presentations — skills that many take for granted, but which are transformative for those who’ve been digitally excluded.

As is often the norm in townships, the moment someone creates their first professional document, you can see their entire posture change.

“This is like seeing someone discover their own power — and this is what you will learn today,” quipped Mkhonza to the attentive class.

Beyond basic computer skills, the programme also includes professional development sessions.

Net Nine Nine’s Head of Human Resources, Dricus Botha, shared a pre-recorded video outlining what employers look for during interviews — crucial knowledge that could change a participant’s life.

Genlloud reinforced these lessons, offering guidance on interview techniques, creating LinkedIn profiles, and establishing a professional online presence.

“We emphasise the difference between personal and professional online presence,” Mmako explained. “Many didn’t realise that employers search for them online, or that LinkedIn could connect them to opportunities worldwide.”

Others expressed how invisible they felt to employers without a strong CV, a LinkedIn profile, or the ability to search for jobs online.

But from now on, they will be visible.

The programme’s impact is also being felt beyond the participants themselves.

Internet cafés report customers requesting more advanced services, and local businesses have noticed an increase in digitally-prepared

job applications. Even government continues to encourage digital employment pathways.

At the upcoming graduation ceremony, the room will be abuzz with possibility — participants proudly displaying their certificates, many already sharing stories of interviews secured and opportunities discovered.

“This isn’t just about computers,” Mmako reflected, watching the graduates network with new confidence.

“It’s about dignity. It’s about inclusion in a world that increasingly demands digital fluency. It’s about making sure that talent isn’t wasted just because someone didn’t have access to basic tools.”

They won’t leave with just certificates and skills, but with something perhaps even more valuable — a renewed sense of possibility. An achievement Madiba would be proud of.

“Next time,” Mmako says with a smile that suggests she’s already planning, “we’ll go even deeper, guided by what the community tells us they need. This is just the beginning.”

In Kwa Guqa, the digital divide is closing — and as Regional Manager William Ratladi agrees, it’s happening one Microsoft certificate at a time.

G20 SUMMIT WILL PUT SOUTH AFRICA’S CONNECTIVITY UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

It goes without saying that South Africa’s telecommunications capacity will come under intense scrutiny when the country hosts world heads of state and government leaders during the 20th edition of the Group of 20 Summit (G20), set to take place in Johannesburg from 22 to 23 November 2025.

This will be the first time Africa hosts the summit, with an estimated cost of R691 million to the South African government. Leaders from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as two regional bodies — the European Union and the African Union — are expected to attend.

However, it is evident that not all role players will be able to attend in person — and this is where internet infrastructure comes into play. These leaders will rely heavily on South Africa’s telecommunications networks and its ability to provide consistent, highspeed, and stable connectivity for seamless virtual participation.

Amid mixed global expectations, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, made it “very clear” that:

“AI is not a sectoral issue. It is a cross-cutting force that requires coherence across policy spaces.”

In a statement from his office, Gungubele said:

“This is why one of our immediate responsibilities is to map areas where AI has a significant impact across G20 sectors, and to pinpoint where targeted policy interventions are needed.

“If the G20 is to lead, we must lead with unity of vision and common purpose for the betterment of humanity. We’ve already seen promising examples.”

And it’s not only absent world leaders who will require reliable connectivity — global business leaders, stakeholders on the ground, and remote participants across the globe will also depend on South Africa’s underground fibre cabling network for solid attendance to all meetings as Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Fourth Information Technology (4IT) trends take centre stage.

“The Tourism Working Group has proposed a hackathon to drive AI solutions that enhance the travel experience, promote sustainability, and serve the public good,” Gungubele noted.

“I am proud to announce that the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), in collaboration with the Western Cape Provincial Government and the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA), has supported this initiative.

“This is a demonstration of how AI can be applied practically and ethically, rooted in local realities, yet global in ambition. But to do this well, we need more than just good intentions.”

He added that South Africa must ensure uniformity in language and coherence in AI policy positions across all G20 outcomes:

“It is our duty, through this Task Force, to coordinate, track, and advise — not to centralise control, but to guide and amplify the work already being done.”

He explained further:

“With this Task Force, the South African Presidency of the G20 has created a forum through which no AI-related matter — whether in tourism, health, education, or climate — will fall through the cracks.”

The AI for Africa Initiative has also committed to

hosting an AI for Africa Conference, which will showcase transformative projects from all 54 African countries.

“With these initiatives, we are aggregating efforts — not only to give them visibility, but to connect them to global partnerships and investments. I was recently at the 11th BRICS Communications Ministers’ Meeting in Brasília, Brazil, and I was excited and pleased that our very progressive declaration was adopted without objections.”

In the final leg of the G20’s first full presidency cycle, Gungubele emphasised that South Africa must leave behind durable frameworks, not just political statements.

“But let us be clear: we are not here to simply draft text. We are here to shape the architecture of responsible AI governance for a shared and just digital future.”

MOYA FM’S ‘COCO’ PIONEERING DIGITAL COMPANIES BROADCASTING USING NET99 INTERNET!

In an exclusive interview, a dynamic broadcaster shared insights into his journey from local roots to launching Moya FM, an innovative online radio station that represents the future of digital media in Hammanskraal, Tshwane.

For many, Hammanskraal is just another township on the map — but for one visionary media entrepreneur, it’s the very soil where Kagiso Lucas “Coco” Ramathope’s dreams were planted and began to bloom in the digital age.

That’s how the founder of Moya FM, a thriving online station with its studio in Temba, describes his roots in Hammanskraal — also affectionately known as “Hamitown” by locals. From primary school through high school, he was raised in a township where information was scarce, but ambition was rich — and he knew he wanted to write his own story within the broadcasting space, or rather, the multimedia arena.

Founded in 2023, Moya FM is a testament to the evolving media landscape, strategically positioning itself in the digital space.

Coco, as he prefers to be known by his stage name, has a background in production and music industry connections. He chose an internet-based platform over traditional frequency broadcasting.

Key highlights of the venture include a planned mobile app launch in September 2025, and his partnership with Net Nine Nine is seen as a gateway toward achieving his long-term goal of reaching for the stars.

The fibre Internet Service Provider (ISP) has donated unlimited, free internet connectivity to the Moya FM studio, where Coco uses it for broadcasting — as well as providing telephone lines.

He believes online radio is a cost-effective broadcasting model, and the collaboration with Net Nine Nine, as a reseller, will see him blossom.

Incredible news is that he is currently in talks with MultiChoice/DStv for a potential partnership to get a slot for Moya FM in their radio bouquet segment.

He revealed that the station’s strategy focuses on leveraging technology and internet accessibility, recognising the growing trend of digital content consumption.

The ambitious Coco, who previously worked alongside Kalawa Jazmee, plans to host major awards around Pretoria and expand the station’s reach — “as Moya FM represents a forward-thinking approach to radio broadcasting”.

“This digital-first approach positions Moya FM as an innovative player in South Africa’s media landscape, demonstrating the potential of internet-based broadcasting,” he said.

Long before he became a voice behind the mic, he was a voice behind the scenes — beginning his journey as a DJ and producer, studying production at the State Theatre, where he discovered his gift and passion for the entertainment space, and his calling to influence and educate communities through media.

The fibre Internet Service Provider (ISP) has donated unlimited, free internet connectivity to the Moya FM studio, where Coco uses it for broadcasting — as well as providing telephone lines.

He believes online radio is a cost-effective broadcasting model, and the collaboration with Net Nine Nine, as a reseller, will see him blossom.

Incredible news is that he is currently in talks with MultiChoice/DStv for a potential partnership to get a slot for Moya FM in their radio bouquet segment.

He revealed that the station’s strategy focuses on leveraging technology and internet accessibility, recognising the growing trend of digital content consumption.

The ambitious Coco, who previously worked alongside Kalawa Jazmee, plans to host major awards around Pretoria and expand the station’s reach — “as Moya FM represents a forward-thinking approach to radio broadcasting”.

“This digital-first approach positions Moya FM as an innovative player in South Africa’s media landscape, demonstrating the potential of internet-based broadcasting,” he said.

Long before he became a voice behind the mic, he was a voice behind the scenes — beginning his journey as a DJ and producer, studying production at the State Theatre, where he discovered his gift and passion for the entertainment space, and his calling to influence and educate communities through media.

From there, he moved to Pretoria to deepen his practical skills in music and media. His big break came when he was called up by Kalawa Jazmee, one of the country’s most iconic music stables.

“I stayed with the Kalawa Jazmee crew in Midrand for three years, sharing a house with the likes of Eugene Mthethwa of Trompies,” he said. “Those years shaped everything for me. I gained connections, experience, and learned how the media industry really works.”

Listeners can currently access Moya FM through:

Website: www.fm.co.za

Social Media: @MoyaFM (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)

NET99 HITS 100-SCHOOL

MILESTONE IN TRANSFORMING EDUCATION!

Patience has finally paid off for many township schools across South Africa — and Net Nine Nine has delivered the breakthrough.

The Johannesburg-based Internet Service Provider (ISP) has now successfully connected 100 schools with unlimited, free, high-speed fibre internet, hitting a major milestone in its ambitious underprivileged school connectivity project.

This achievement marks a turning point in the education sector, as Net99’s initiative goes far beyond simple internet access.

It’s about reshaping how learning happens in the modern era — giving both learners and teachers the tools to thrive in a digital world.

Compared to just 21 connected schools in mid-2024, the growth to 100 within a year represents a phenomenal spike — an incredible feat for a five-year-old company.

The free 1 Gig fibre connections are already making a difference in under-resourced schools. Where textbooks are scarce and funding is limited, access to reliable internet is proving transformative.

Many of these schools are seeing a noticeable improvement in pass rates and digital literacy, thanks to this new gateway to online learning.

To date, Net99 has connected schools across Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, North West, and the Free State — and is now pushing into the Eastern Cape and Limpopo. The demand is growing rapidly, with school principals around the country reaching out to be part of the programme.

In 2015, the Gauteng Department of Education launched the Paperless Classroom Project under then-MEC Panyaza Lesufi. A decade later, many schools remain behind due to inadequate infrastructure and high data costs.

Net99 is bridging that gap — and leading South Africa into a more digitally connected future, similar to Rwanda’s education model powered by cutting-edge fibre technology.

Earlier forecasts suggested Net99 would reach the 100-school mark by mid-2026. But thanks to efficient planning and strong partnerships, that goal has been reached a full year ahead of schedule.

And the momentum isn’t slowing down.

In June 2025, the company unveiled a fully equipped computer lab at Wood and Raw Secondary School in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal — a school that previously had smartboards but no internet connection.

There was excitement when the ribbon was cut to officially open the lab with 30 modern computers neatly stored on desks, plus two laptops for the tech teachers at the school.

Net Nine Nine’s 100-school achievement isn’t just a milestone — it’s a movement that’s reshaping the future of learning in South Africa.

Satisfied Clients

Dan D

Lebo Moroosi Pretty always helps me to my satisfaction even on weekends or after hours she’s always there go help.

Alundamda D

Exceptional service from Rethabile at net99 in Mthatha! Went above and beyond after hours to ensure everything was taken care of. Highly recommend for professionalism and dedication!

Busisiwe D

Very effective and reliable. Lesego Disetlhe assited me from start to finish. Kept me posted with each step for my installation. Provided feedback promptly. Would definitely recommended her and get her more client.

Tshepang M

Excellent service, communication and installation. I was kept in the loop and informed at every step of the way, even after installation. My contact person was Lesego Disetlhe, she went above and beyond and was very helpful.

Lindiwe L

Vuyani Radebe has been a great help. I’ve been struggling with my wifi connection since Saturday,he contacted me and I told him what my problem was, since then he’s been making sure I get the help I needed, thank you so much Vuyani.

Ledile

Kgomotso from support he is good with customers he quickly resolve my issue Kgomotso he is outstanding. It was great to be assisted by Litha from the billing department.

It was great to be assisted by Litha from the billing department. He provided such excellent assistance and made the process of reconnecting to the Internet easier for me. Indeed, having passionate and dedicated team members like Litha can make a significant difference in the workplace. Their commitment not only improves customer experiences but also fosters a positive work environment.

OUR GO TO MEN ON THE GROUND

GAUTENG REGION

GA-RANKUWA STEWARDS

Isaac Mothibi

Dimakatso Themba

Oupa Ramosepele CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686029135

KAGISO STEWARDS

Themba Manzie

Danny Letlhage

Itumeleng Menyatso CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686245586

MHLUZI STEWARDS

Pastor Thulani Sango

Hohannah Masilela

Duduzile Mthombeni CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686240553

KWA-GUQA STEWARDS

Musa Ncongwane

Ayanda Mathebula

Sbongile Skhosana CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686083885

WESTONARIA STEWARDS

Richard Nziyana Jacob Banda CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686177774

HAMMANSKRAAL STEWARDS

Neoyame Nthite Norman Maboa Paulos Mahlangu CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686360536

MPUMALANGA REGION

DELMAS STEWARDS

Sifiso Yekani CONTACT NUMBERS:

HENDRINA STEWARDS

Zama Bhengu

Thobani Mncube CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686240553

BETHAL STEWARDS

Khosi Motha

Sibongile Mthimunye CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686083885

ROCKLANDS STEWARDS

Thabo Thaane

Nthabiseng Mokobori

Antronica Sebidi CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686233711

THABONG STEWARDS

Disebo Makume

Sello Makonyane CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686163016

FREE STATE REGION

QWAQWA STEWARDS

Christian Ledimo

Khekhe Sekere CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686201618

BOTSHABELO STEWARDS

Khotso Moleko

Tshepang Mahloko CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686201618

KWAZULU-NATAL REGION

THABA-NCHU STEWARDS

Christian Ledimo

Khekhe Sekere CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686201618

BHEKUZULU STEWARDS

Lerato Modumaela

Danisile Mdlalose CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686029135

EMPANGENI STEWARDS

Andile Africander

Zuzile Mwanzi CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686177774

UMLAZI STEWARDS

Ndumiso Mkhize

Minenhle Ngubane Vuyani Radebe CONTACT NUMBERS:

EASTERN CAPE REGION NORTH-WEST REGION

MTHATHA STEWARDS

Siseko Mashalaba

Nomvuyo Mhlungu CONTACT NUMBERS:

RUSTENBURG STEWARDS

Masego Pelle CONTACT NUMBERS:

213 Utrecht Street, Vryheid, KwaZuluNatal, 3100

Reahola Shopping Centre, Shop 47B, Botshabelo, 9781

063 904 6471

robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

087 245 0099

tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

Erf 16914 Tlou St, Boitekong, Rustenburg, 0309

Botleng Mall, ERF 10665, Cnr, Bronkhorstspruit

068 607 2886

portiam@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

068 632 2464

williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

Emhluzi Mall 2/3/4 of erf 12941

Mhluzi Middelburg.

068 633 7385

williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

Shop 22 Rex Henderson & Paul Ave, 5 Ways mall

079 848 1955

robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

EMZINONI

6 Liebenberg Avenue, Gordan Centre, Bethal

CONTACT

068 649 2858 williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

HAMMANSKRAAL

Renbro shopping centre, 39 Old Warmbaths road,

KWA-GUQA

Maqhibini Dr, KwaGuqa, Emalahleni, 1073

063 904 6471 ronnym@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

1122 Kgware road, Unit number 16

Gauteng 0208

31 Beukes St, Hendrina, Mpumalanga 1095

Shop M1, Mezzanine Level, Mall of Mthata

068 603 4533 williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

Kagiso Mall Kagiso Dr, Krugersdorp

063 905 9556

tshepomo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

Kensworth Centre

Moshoeshoe St, Rocklands, A Phakathi Drive and, Nkoane Rd

Welkom, Freestate

063 903 3639 tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

10115 Motloung Street, Kenzitown Freestate, 9869 07 Hoog Street, Bahlabani Centre, Thaba Nchu, 9780

068 636 0310 tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

341 Griffiths Mnxege highway, shop 319

The Elizabeth Centre 8 Pres Kruger

063 905 9556 elsie@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

068 620 7611

ronnym@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

079 848 1955

williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

068 644 4427

elsie@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

068 610 2629

tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

087 245 0099

tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

068 932 1162

robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.